Japan Travel FAQ for New Zealand Travellers | Japan360

Question 1

What happens if I miss my reserved Shinkansen?

Accepted Answer

If you miss your reserved Shinkansen, it is not always the end of the journey. In many cases, you may still be able to board a later train, but not in the same reserved seat. The basic understanding is that you would usually move to a non-reserved seat instead. This is one of those small but important rules that can make a stressful moment much easier if you already know it. You don't have to line up at ticketing counter to change it.

Question 2

Can I rely on coin lockers in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Not really. If you find one, think of it as a bonus. Especially for a large suitcase. Large coin lockers for suitcases are often already full, especially in busy stations and tourist areas. Some can be paid for with a transport IC card, while others are cash only, so even the payment method is not always consistent. It is better not to build your day around expecting to find one. If you find an available locker, that is great, but it is safer to think of coin lockers as something useful if available, not something guaranteed. If you cannot find one, it is also worth checking whether the station or a nearby facility offers a temporary luggage storage service.

Question 3

What should I do if I cannot find a rubbish bin in Japan?

Accepted Answer

That is quite normal in Japan. Public rubbish bins are not as common as many travellers expect, so it is a good idea to carry a small spare bag for wrappers, bottles, or other rubbish during the day. Bins do exist, but they are often in specific places, such as train platforms or beside vending machines. When you find one, it is worth getting rid of your rubbish then, rather than waiting for a better opportunity later.

Question 4

Will people in Japan speak English?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes, but it is best not to rely on it too much. We are not quite like Bali or Thailand as you may already know. In many parts of Japan, especially outside major tourist areas, English communication can be limited. Even when people want to help, they may feel shy or unsure about speaking English. It doesn't mean that they don't want to talk to you. That is why tools like Google Translate can be extremely useful during the trip. A simple translation app can make everyday situations much smoother, from asking for directions to checking in, shopping, or clarifying small details.

Question 5

Is it better to stay in a hotel than an Airbnb in Japan?

Accepted Answer

If you are moving around a lot, often yes. A hotel with a proper front desk can make Japan travel much smoother, especially when it comes to receiving luggage, storing bags, or sending items ahead to your next destination. This is especially helpful if you are shopping during the trip or want to travel between cities without carrying everything. Airbnb can still suit some travellers, but in practical day-to-day travel, hotels are often easier and more flexible especially in big cities.

Question 6

Should I always use baggage forwarding in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Baggage forwarding is very reliable and can be extremely helpful for situations like hiking trips, ski travel, or routes where carrying large luggage would be a hassle. But if there is no special reason, it is often cheaper to travel with your suitcase instead. There are usually cut-off times for sending luggage in a day before, and the cost can add up quickly when you are sending several bags for a family. Many travellers think carrying luggage in Japan will be harder than it really is, but in major stations and well-planned routes, it is often more manageable than expected.

Question 7

If I take the wrong exit at a big station in Japan, does it really matter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sometimes more than travellers expect. In Japan, especially in places like Tokyo, the wrong station exit can easily add 10 to 20 minutes of extra walking. You may technically be at the right station, but still end up far from your hotel, meeting point, or street-level landmark. That is why in Japan, the right station is not always enough. The right exit matters too. Please use google maps to find which exit is right for your destination.

Question 8

Can most of the shops in different cities send my purchases ahead to my final hotel?

Accepted Answer

Often yes, if your final hotel has a proper front desk. (24hours) This can be very helpful if Tokyo is your last stop and you do not want to carry shopping with you through the rest of the trip. The important thing is that the receiving hotel needs to be able to accept the delivery, and the parcel should be clearly labelled with the guest name and check-in date. This is one of those small things that can make multi-city travel in Japan feel much easier.

Question 9

Can I buy common medicines like pain killers or antihistamines in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Often yes, but not always in the same form or under the same brand names you may know from home. Japan has pharmacies and drugstores where many common over-the-counter medicines can be bought, including options for pain relief and allergies. However, the ingredients, strengths, and brand names may differ. It is best not to assume that your usual product will exist in exactly the same version. If there is something specific you rely on, it is wise to check before travelling or bring an appropriate supply if it is allowed. A translation app can also be very helpful when asking staff for the right product.

Question 10

Should I carry cash in Japan, and how much?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is still a good idea to carry some cash in Japan. Cards and cashless payments are much more common than they used to be, especially in major cities, but smaller shops, older restaurants, temples, local businesses, and some rural areas may still be cash only. As a general guide, around 10,000 to 20,000 yen per person is a sensible amount to keep on hand for day-to-day travel. If you are travelling outside major cities, visiting smaller local places, or travelling as a family, carrying a little more can make the day much smoother.

Japan Travel FAQ

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